OFFICERS DOWN: Gary, EC Cop Shot Outside Highland Bar

“Minutes after arriving at the scene, officers located the initial 2 males walking a block from the scene and they were . . .taken into custody.” Highland Police Commander John Banasiak

UPDATE:

Source: Officer Aguilera Awake, Alert, Visiting with Family

May 19, 2018-Highland Police have confirmed that two individuals were shot outside Growler’s Bar, 2816 Highway Avenue, Highland. According to the statement, two individuals had left the bar and attempted to return just after 2:30 a.m. An off-duty police officer working security at the door told the individuals that “the business was no longer allowing patrons inside as it was near closing time” according to Commander Banasiak. The Gazette has confirmed that the man working the door was an off-duty Gary officer.

A physical disturbance ensued according to the statement from Commander Banasiak. An off-duty East Chicago Police Officer intervened according to a source. The altercation moved to the parking lot where the two officers were shot. A Highland Police Officer on routine patrol reported hearing 4-5 gunshots in the 7000 block of Kennedy at 2:38 a.m. according to information derived from the scanner.

Both officers were transported to Methodist Hospital Northlake. The Gary Officer was treated and released according to the statement. The East Chicago Officer was transported to Christ Hosptital in Oak Lawn.

UPDATE: A source confirms that the East Chicago Officer is David Aguilera. His condition is unknown at this time.

Police say they quickly apprehended the two individuals involved in the altercation. “Minutes after arriving at the scene, officers located the initial 2 males walking a block from the scene and they were stopped by police. The were taken into custody and are being held at the Highland Police Department for further investigation” according to Commander Banasiak. Commander Banasiak says the investigation is continuing.

All criminal defendants are presumed innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law. A criminal charge is not evidence of guilt.